Levoflox is a high-potency fluoroquinolone antibiotic indicated for the treatment of adults with serious bacterial infections. As the synthetic L-isomer of ofloxacin, it demonstrates enhanced antibacterial activity against a wide spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic pathogens. Its excellent tissue penetration and bactericidal action make it a first-line choice for complicated respiratory, urinary tract, skin, and intra-abdominal infections where other antibiotics have failed or are contraindicated.

Features

• Active ingredient: Levofloxacin (250mg/500mg/750mg film-coated tablets)
• Pharmacological class: Third-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic
• Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV
• Spectrum: Broad coverage against aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
• Bioavailability: Approximately 99% oral bioavailability
• Half-life: 6-8 hours permitting once or twice daily dosing

Benefits

• Rapid bactericidal action against resistant pathogens including Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• Superior lung tissue penetration for effective respiratory infection treatment
• High urinary concentration levels for complicated UTI management
• Convenient once-daily dosing regimen improves patient compliance
• Demonstrated efficacy in immunocompromised patients with serious infections
• Reduced hospital stay duration for patients with severe bacterial pneumonia

Common use

Levoflox is prescribed for complicated urinary tract infections including pyelonephritis, community-acquired pneumonia of moderate to severe intensity, acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, complicated skin and skin structure infections, acute bacterial sinusitis, and chronic bacterial prostatitis. It is also used as part of combination therapy for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and for post-exposure inhalation anthrax prophylaxis.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage varies by indication and severity. For most infections: 250-750 mg orally once daily. Duration typically ranges from 7-14 days depending on infection type and clinical response. Administer with a full glass of water, at least 2 hours before or after antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, sucralfate, metal cations such as iron, or multivitamins containing zinc. Dosage adjustment required in renal impairment (CrCl <50 mL/min). Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve earlier.

Precautions

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use protective measures due to photosensitivity risk. Maintain adequate hydration to prevent crystal formation in urine. Monitor blood glucose regularly in diabetic patients. Use with caution in patients with CNS disorders (e.g., epilepsy) due to potential seizure threshold lowering. May exacerbate muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Regular assessment of tendon pain or inflammation recommended, especially in elderly patients and those taking corticosteroids.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, other quinolones, or any component of the formulation. Contraindicated in patients with history of tendon disorders associated with quinolone use. Not recommended in children, adolescents, pregnant women, or nursing mothers due to risk of arthropathy. Avoid in patients with known QTc prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia, or those taking Class IA or III antiarrhythmic agents.

Possible side effect

Common: nausea (3-5%), diarrhea (2-4%), headache (2-3%), insomnia (2-3%), constipation (2%). Less common: dizziness, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, vaginitis. Serious: tendonitis or tendon rupture (0.1-0.3%), peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects (seizures, anxiety, confusion), QTc prolongation, hypoglycemia, hepatic toxicity, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, phototoxicity reactions. Discontinue immediately at first sign of tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation.

Drug interaction

Significant interactions with: warfarin (increased anticoagulant effect), antacids containing magnesium/aluminum, sucralfate, iron preparations, zinc (reduced absorption), NSAIDs (increased CNS stimulation risk), corticosteroids (increased tendon rupture risk), oral hypoglycemics (enhanced hypoglycemic effect), Class IA and III antiarrhythmics (additive QTc prolongation), theophylline (increased theophylline levels). Maintain at least 2-hour separation from cation-containing products.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Maintain the regular dosing schedule. If multiple doses are missed, contact healthcare provider for guidance on regimen adjustment.

Overdose

Symptoms may include CNS excitation (seizures, confusion, dizziness), gastrointestinal distress, and prolongation of QTc interval. Management is supportive with ECG monitoring for at least 24 hours. Hemodialysis removes approximately 10-15% of the dose. No specific antidote exists. Maintain adequate hydration and electrolyte balance. Symptomatic treatment for seizures with benzodiazepines if necessary.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed. Do not store in bathroom medicine cabinet due to humidity. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Levoflox is a prescription medication that should only be used under direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician should consider individual patient factors including renal function, concomitant medications, and potential drug interactions. Patients should report any unusual symptoms or side effects immediately to their healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate levofloxacin efficacy rates of 85-95% for approved indications. In a multicenter trial of 590 patients with community-acquired pneumonia, clinical success rates were 92% for levofloxacin versus 85% for comparator antibiotics. For complicated UTIs, bacteriological eradication rates exceed 90% against common uropathogens. Post-marketing surveillance indicates high physician satisfaction with its broad spectrum and predictable pharmacokinetics, though awareness of potential serious adverse effects remains crucial for safe prescribing.